This is poetry in paint, spectacular but never spectacle for its own sake, writes JAN WOOLF

JAN WOOLF relishes a book of poetry that deploys the energy of political struggle, rooted in post-war working class history and culture

JAN WOOLF marvels at a rich brew of steam-punk Victoriana, homosexual scandal, and contemporary reference

JAN WOOLF ponders the images of humanity that emerge from the tormented, destructive process of the Kindertransport survivor Frank Auerbach

JAN WOOLF savours the essays of Hilary Mantel: high calorific brain food that slips down nicely

JAN WOOLF ponders a year of challenging reviews

JAN WOOLF relishes a seasonal offering of peanuts

JAN WOOLF enjoys an imaginative revival of the Anton Chekhov classic

JAN WOOLF is sucked into a unique vision of the urban US from the perspective of immigrant and queer communities

JAN WOOLF joins forces with artists and activists who seek to understand and resist corporate capital

JAN WOOLF swoons to a sublime blend of poetry and choreography

JAN WOOLF reviews the latest title from the 'chronicler of muddle England'